Laos Alumni

Ms. Kathao CHOUSOUATHAO, a fourth-year undergraduate student at The Laos-American Institute, majoring in Business Management. I work as a salesperson at Etern Laos Communication Technology Sole., LTD, providing information on security cameras for clients. I’m also a freelance makeup artist on weekends or when needed. I am passionate about making a difference in my community. I am currently an ambassador for Rising Leaders and a volunteer Assistant for the Scholarship Committee in Seeds4Hope, a non-profit based in the USA that is dedicated to ending early marriage and supporting young Hmong girls in higher education and business beyond their strengths. As a Hmong-girl, I want to inspire the young generations to pursue their dreams and make a difference for themselves and their communities.

Southida Insal

Miss Southida Insal graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from University of Health Sciences (UHS). She is passionate about public health and human services, particularly in preventing maternal deaths and advancing gender equality. Southida is currently a Program Support Intern in Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit at United Nations Population Fund. She experienced working with government, private sector, intergovernmental, including fellowship at the U.S. Embassy Vientiane. She volunteered at Action4Diabetes, where she supported families and facilitated impactful health initiatives. Southida also joined the Temasek Polytechnic Leadership Exchange and volunteered at the Society for the Aged Sick in Singapore. In 2023, she represented her school in a public health exchange program at Silpakorn University, Thailand. Southida is committed to creating sustainable solutions and believes in “Health is a fundamental human right."

Jinnapha Mixaykone

Ms. Jinnapha Mixaykone graduated with a Bachelor of Mass Communication from the National University of Laos (NUOL) and works as a content creator for Cre8 Advertising and Marketing. Beyond her profession, she actively volunteers with Queers and Cheers, supporting the LGBTQ+ community in Laos. 

Her advocacy focuses on strengthening community networks and fostering meaningful conversations on inclusivity. She collaborates with grassroots organizations to organize discussions, workshops, and awareness campaigns that promote equal rights and challenge societal barriers. Through these efforts, she strives to create safe spaces for dialogue, connection, and advocacy. 

Jinnapha believes that "a strong community is one where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued." She remains committed to amplifying LGBTQ+ voices and creating opportunities for meaningful participation in shaping a more equitable society. 

Chilanhouth Nitvongkhay

Chilanhouth Nitvongkhay graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Informa=on Technology from the Na=onal University of Laos (NUOL). He is passionate about leveraging technology and innova=on to address social issues. Chilanhouth was awarded the APNIC Fellowship, recognizing his contribu=ons to technology, internet governance, and technical capacity-building among young leaders in the Asia-Pacific region. He has ac=vely represented Laos in various interna=onal programs, including the APIGA Fellowship, which focuses on fostering a unified and inclusive internet governance environment in Asia-Pacific, and Rok Mekong, where he explored supercompu=ng applica=ons to tackle societal challenges. He is ac=vely involved in volunteering, including contribu=ng to the Na=onal Human Development Report project, which supports UNDP Laos in empowering youth as key drivers of sustainable development in Laos. As a YSEALI 2025 selectee, he firmly believes that: "Technology empowers youth to shape a be[er future by driving innova=on, bridging inequali=es, and crea=ng sustainable solu=ons for global challenges."

Southida Phanthavong

Ms. Southida Phanthavong holds a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary. She is currently engaged in the development sector, working with a Canadian INGO in Laos to advance gender equality and promote women's economic empowerment. 

Southida has represented Laos on multiple international programmes, including JENESYS 2015, Sunburst Youth Camp 2016, the ASEAN Youth Exchange Programme 2018, TFI-Scale 2019, the ASEAN-Australia Youth Mental Health Fellowship 2023, the 47th Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program 2023, and YSEALI Creating Positive Online Space 2024. 

With a strong passion for civic engagement, she leverages media to enhance program outreach and aims to empower her community, particularly in improving digital literacy. Southida is a firm believer in the transformative power of community-driven solutions to drive sustainable and meaningful change. 

Phoutthasith Phengsavath (Jacky)

Mr. Phoutthasith Phengsavath (Jacky) is a third-year International Relations student at the National University of Laos with a strong passion for justice and human rights. His dedication to these causes has led him to pursue studies in Law and Political Sciences. He currently serves as Secretary-General of the Asian Law Students’ Association (ALSA) National Chapter Laos. Previously, he was a student leader and volunteer with the Association for the Development of Women and Legal Education, collaborating with legal professionals to educate high school students and conducting research on international treaties concerning children's and women's rights, particularly the CRC.

Jacky has represented Laos in international policy-focused programs including the ALSA Malaysia Forum 2024, YSEALI Regional Workshop 2022, YSEALI Summit 2024, and the India-ASEAN Youth Conference 2024. He believes that the underrepresentation of marginalized communities in accessing fundamental services significantly impacts their lives and limits their ability to participate in decision-making processes.

Soutlasi Yarkaomany

My name is Soutlasi Yarkaomany, but you can call me Pou or Chee (Hmong’s name). I am a Hmong woman from Xiengkhouang with a bachelor's degree in International Relations. I work as an assistant at The Makerbox Laos and Switch EV Laos, collaborating on various initiatives to drive innovation and support community development. 

As an alumni fellow of the One Million Leaders in Asia program and a current DLA Piper fellow, I am developing my leadership and legal skills through immersive, hands-on experiences. I also serve as a project manager at NIKOLA, where I lead the Nature Ware project, producing eco-friendly tableware from leaves to promote sustainable tourism. 

In addition, I am a Lone Buffalo ambassador, dedicated to maintaining strong relationships among alumni and fostering an inspiring and connected community. 

Nong XIONG

Nong XIONG, a Hmong child born and raised in a rural village, is currently a junior pursuing his bachelor's degree in Business English at the Rattana Institute of Business Administration in Laos. Passionate about community service, he has actively contributed as a volunteer to numerous projects benefiting his local community, even though what he is doing not related to his academic area. But Nong still faithful and continue because he believe that only education can lead people through the challenge. In 2022, he decided to build a project called Huk-hien for offering free English class for student in the community, until today his project was implemented for almost 3 years. Nong Xiong plan to complete his studies and go back to his home community for contributing the knowledge for his community by working alongside with youth in community development because that is his ultimate purpose in life.

Puna PHAVAN

Ms. Puna PHAVAN graduated with a Bachelor of Education and First-Class Honors from Champasak University (CU). In 2024, she was honored as the female senior representative and delivered a speech at her graduation. Currently, she works as a translator and assistant administrator for the Attapeu Nursing School Project and is the co-founder and coordinator of Pakse Academy (formerly Youth’s Power Center). Puna also teaches students after work. Previously, she held leadership roles in various youth projects, including Pakse Youth’s Power 2, Future Journey, and the Youth for a Better Community Project. Passionate about community development, she actively volunteers and strives to develop youth leadership skills. She is a strong advocate for quality education for all and believes that “With good education, people can enjoy learning, improve themselves, and positively impact society and the planet.” 

Soukthavone Douangdala

Soukthavone Douangdala is a senior student at National University of Laos. He’s a passionate student dedicated to community development. Soukthavone is the founder and leader of LYPS (Lao Youth Power for Sustainability), an organization focuses on promoting educational accessibility for Lao children in English education, environmental conservation, and poverty eradication. He strives to bring creativity, leadership, and a drive to make a meaningful impact in his community. He has been actively involved in various community development and youth engagement initiatives, like good Hands Laos, Zero Waste Laos, UNFPA Laos, FLOW, MMP, and Phamai. He has involved as LO in international conferences, like ASEAN Summit and Related Summit, MGMAC & AFT2024, and ASEAN TF. Also, Soukthavone has actively represented Lao PDR for ASEAN Youth Convergence 2024. As a YSEALI AFP participant, he looks forward to exchanging ideas, experiences, and working on sustainable regional development while building strong relationships with other participants.    

Mr. Tounou Chanthavongsa is a passionate advocate for community development and youth participation. He is pursuing a Bachelor of Community and Rural Development at the National University of Laos. Tounou is the founder of Youthempact, a movement whose goal is to enable young people to participate in and sustain positive changes in their communities. He has led various projects related to education, environmental awareness, and civic engagement, such as his work with the UNICEF East Asia & Pacific as a member of the Young People’s Action Team for Participation and Civic Engagement. As a distinguished youth delegate of Laos for ASEAN Foundation with Huawei Seeds for the Future and participates in international programs in Japan, Indonesia, Cambodia and other countries to promote intercultural cooperation. Tounou seeks to create sustainable development opportunities in communities while inspiring others to act as stewards of the environment.

Niphaphone Douangngeun

I am Niphaphone Douangngeun, a graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from the National University of Laos (NUOL) and currently studying Business Management at the LaoAmerican Institute. I am interning with GIZ Laos on the Protection and Sustainable Use of Forest Ecosystems and Biodiversity Project. I have also gained valuable experience through an internship at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. My passion for community service led me to volunteer with the Catholic University International Volunteer Program, which focuses on social justice, education, and community development. In this role, I prepared and delivered lessons in English and Lao, ensuring a productive learning environment by managing classroom discipline. My academic studies and professional experiences have strengthened my commitment to sustainable development, education, and public service

Bounthida Ounavong

Ms. Bounthida Ounavong, a graduate in International Affairs and International Relations from Beijing Language and Culture University, is passionate about environmental sustainability. She co-founded HexaGreen, a project dedicated to equipping Lao students in a remote area with essential knowledge of environmental preservation and sanitation practices. During high school, she participated in prestigious programs such as the Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths (2015), the China Bridge Camp (2015), the 5th ASEAN Plus Three Junior Science Odyssey (2016), and the Southeast Asia Youth Leadership Program (2017). Currently, she is a Project Assistant at the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) Lao PDR, where she contributes to advancing sustainable urbanization initiatives across Laos. In her free time, she shares her love of literature on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok (@rainterature), engaging a growing audience. 

Tavanh Phetsaphaivanh

Mr. Tavanh Phetsaphaivanh (Sun), at the age of 24, hails from Laos and is the founder of the Precious Plastic Vientiane project. His enthusiasm and ambition are channeled toward sustainable development and community empowerment. Having obtained his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the National University of Laos in 2022, Sun is currently working with his friends on a recycling project. Together, they engage local youths in the vital processes of waste separation, recycling, and turning plastic waste into a source of profit, all under the banner of "Waste to Value." Sun's ultimate aim is to elevate this small-scale project into a full-fledged social enterprise, applying his educational background to drive positive change in his community and beyond 

Chanthamaly Phongsavath

Ms. Chanthamaly Phongsavath holds a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Management from the National University of Laos (NUOL). Her passion for addressing environmental issues has driven her to engage in various volunteer activities since her high school years. During her senior year, she had the opportunity to volunteer with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS Lao PDR), where she gained valuable insights into the challenges facing wildlife in the country. Currently, she works as a Project Assistant for the Counter Wildlife Trafficking Program, where she is dedicated to advocating for the younger generation's involvement in wildlife conservation. With unwavering commitment, she aims to be part of the young generation actively addressing wildlife issues and inspiring others to take action for the protection of our planet's biodiversity aligning with her organization's mission: “To Save Wildlife and Wildlife Places”

Khemnaly Souvanlasy

Khemnaly Souvanlasy, graduated with Bachelor of Environmental Engineering from The Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Science in Hungary. She is deeply passionate about social and environmental issues especially in renewable energy sector and has also contributed to volunteer initiatives in Laos, supporting local sustainability projects. Additionally, she spent one year in Europe working as an Environmental and Social volunteer, where she focused on sustainability, environmental conservation, and social inclusion efforts. 

She is currently working with Earth Systems, where she contributes to environmental and social projects, with a focus on ESIA (Environmental and Social Impact Assessment). Khemnaly is eager to collaborate with like-minded individuals and contribute to sustainability efforts in Laos and beyond. 

Sisavanh Senbounxou

Mr sisavanh Senbounxou a second-year undergraduate student in Environmental Development Planning at the Faculty of Environmental Science, National University of Laos. I am committed to addressing environmental challenges and helping communities adapt to natural disasters and climate change. Recently, I led a research project titled "Child-Led Research", focusing on children's and youths' understanding of climate change and disaster preparedness in my community. This project was part of an initiative by World Vision Asia Pacific and supported by World Vision Laos. Currently, I am the team leader of Social Environmental Education and Development (SEED), volunteer group under my faculty. Through SEED, I strive to raise awareness among students and the public about the impacts of climate change and the importance of disaster preparedness and adaptation. I believe that sustainable environmental development begins with collective action and shared responsibility for a better future.

I am passionate about innovation and aspire to be a social entrepreneur in the future; therefore, I pushed myself to study business administration and graduated from the National University of Laos, faculty of economics and business. I realize that classroom learning will never be enough to support my competency, which is the reason why outdoor activities have inspired me to grow in volunteerism and participation. My experience with international program exchange, as well as OR planting the Future ASEAN 2023 camp under the Marketing Transformation Theme in Thailand and the JENESYE Business Exchange 2023 in Japan, has enabled me to serve as a local business consultant. I've worked with a variety of enterprises to encourage sustainable development and creativity through my marketing and handmade product transformation positions; also, I volunteered with an NGO to launch the Earn-warm biofertilizers campaign as an eco-friendly alternative for farmers. I believe that “sustainable growth requires the combined strength of the economy, the community, and the environment. '

Vannakhone Ounkham

Hi! My name is Vannakhone Ounkham. I am a recent graduate with a degree in Computer Engineering. My work experience is related in the tech field, and I am passionate about solving problems using my knowledge in IT. During my university years, I was an active member and leader of the Robot Club and Champa Maker Club, where we collaborated on innovative tech projects aimed at contributing to the community. In 2022, PrepPath was co-founded by me and three others. What began as a presentation idea and turned into a small Facebook community and has now grown into a fully developed career path self-discovery website. I highly recommend checking it out at prep-path.com and joining our Facebook community, which reached 6,000 members in 2024. Through this journey, I saw the incredible potential of young people in my community and their ability to create a better world. 

Lathdavanh PHIMMAVONG

Ms. Lathdavanh PHIMMAVONG is a Business Management student at the Lao-American Institute and an Accountancy & Auditing student at the National University of Laos. Passionate about education and economic development, she has volunteered as an English tutor in the P2P program, helping students improve their language skills, and served as an SNS Supporter for the Korean Embassy, promoting cultural exchange. She is also working on a microfinance project to help local businesses enhance financial literacy and make informed decisions. Through her experiences, she has developed strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Lathdavanh is committed to lifelong learning and collaboration, believing that bridging global knowledge with local realities is key to driving sustainable economic growth in Laos.

Phoutthasack SENAMOUNTY (Golf)

Mr. Phoutthasack SENAMOUNTY earned a Bachelor of Commerce from The National University of Laos (NUOL). His passion for reading and writing as an interest in university, he was recognized for his academic excellence with an outstanding student award. He is currently contributing to advanced research, focusing on economic problems, as a Student Research Assistant, working closely with professors of NUOL. Previously, Golf demonstrated his leadership and innovation as one of the R&D team leaders during his internship at “Sustainable-Economic-Technology-Solution” (SETS). He has represented Laos for international such as the JENESYS business Exchange, Luojia Global Summer School, and OR Seeding, among others. He actively volunteered in Communities Empowerment, and Environmental related-programs. He believes that “Economic problems are root cause to all problems in our society, if a nation run by its people, but the well-being of its people is being challenged, how can a nation develop smoothly?”  

Souksakhone VONGSOUTTHI

Mr. Souksakhone VONGSOUTTHI graduated with a Bachelor of Economics for Rural Development and Business Extension (English Program) from Savannakhet University. His academic interests focus on rural development, environmental sustainability, and green entrepreneurship. 

Souksakhone has actively participated in international programs such as the DAAD Mobility Exchange Program in Germany, the JENESYS Business Exchange Program in Japan, and ASEAN Leadership Workshop in Thailand. He has also been an ASEAN Youth Volunteer and worked on sustainability projects, including transforming plastic waste into souvenirs. 

Professionally, he is currently a National Program Officer at ADRA Laos. Beside that he is the Co-Founder of SAVANIR and Waste2Paper projects, leading projects focused on sustainability and recycling in Laos. He is committed to driving meaningful change, believing that even the smallest actions can lead to significant impact. Passionate about fostering sustainable development, he strives to create long-term solutions that empower communities and inspire transformative progress. 

Thitthiphone Olinh

Thitthiphone Olinh, is a passionate and driven individual with a strong academic background in pharmacy and a commitment to youth empowerment. His current research assistantship at the Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital Wellcome Trust Research Unit allows his to delve into the field of Medicine Quakity, while his volunteer work reflects a dedication to social good. Thitthiphone's experiences as a volunteer youth worker such as co-founder of Precious Plastic Vientiane of Laos in 2022-2024, volunteer for the UNFPA of Laos in 2023 etc. Showcase his ability to connect with young people, identify their needs, and support them in developing self-awareness and independence. His project work promoting sustainable natural dyeing processes highlights his interest in environmental issues. Thitthiphone's skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving, along with his multilingual fluency, make his a valuable asset in any team. His numerous awards and certifications further demonstrate his dedication to continuous learning and excellence. 

Mr. Bounyong SOULAIYAKHAM, I am studying at Rattana Institute of Business Administration majoring in Marketing, First year(Fresh men). My personally, I am kind, friendly and opened-minded, I am a teenager who actives making change in my community and I have passion in developing my country to be a better place following my passion and motivation I had been a volunteer with many projects, teams and organizations that they works for developing my our community and now I am a volunteer in 3 projects/organizations, such as, I have been a volunteer/management team in Queers&Cheers Laos since 2022. I started to be a volunteer/leader of Academic team with Promotion of Family Health Association( PFHA and I am a volunteer in Legal Eagle Projects. I believe that “ our community is our own, we must project and develop it to be the best society for us and the new generations."

Amphon KHAMMANIVONG

Amphon has gained a year of hands-on experience working with international legal project, focusing on enhancing and strengthening the rule of law and justice institutions in his home country, Laos. As a highly motivated student in the legal field, with particular expertise in written and oral presentation, he has led his team to engage in the International Moot Court Competition for the Asia-Pacific Region. Additionally, Amphon was selected as an exchange student at the University of Luxembourg, where he expanded his legal knowledge with a focus on international and European law for one academic year. While in Laos, he has actively volunteered to provide legal, environmental, and business education to young generations. Most importantly, Developing legal competence has been a central passion driving his professional growth. 

Sadavout Souliyong

Mr. Sadavout Souliyong is a political science student at the National University of Laos (NUOL) and LGBTQ+ rights advocate, working with a local youth group Queers&Cheers. Since his high school days, he has passionately campaigned for the inclusion of marginalized groups in policymaking, lawmaking and political processes. His advocacy is rooted in a deep understanding of intersectionality, recognizing how various forms of discrimination and oppression are interconnected. This realization has driven him to pursue political science, with the goal of fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for all. 

Mona Vilaykoun

My name is Mona Vilaykoun. I graduated with a bachelor's degree in International Relations with Honours from the National University of Laos. I have been part of the ASEAN Youth Advocates Network-Laos (AYANLAOS) since 2023. As a board member of AYANLAOS, we hold a project named Legal Eagles that aims to promote and raise awareness about the rule of law for youths in Laos. Moreover, I was holding a safe space workshop about human rights where everyone can come to exchange ideas through the questions we make; this activity aims to support all participants clearly understand the word human rights. I believe all the workshops and activities that I held not only made a little change in youths mindsets but also can make a huge impact in our community in the future.

Phetmany Vilayphon

Mr. Phetmany Vilayphon (Pon) graduated with a Bachelor of International Business at Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance, completing the study program ahead of schedule with a very good classification. Previously, I worked as an environmental volunteer with Xamnuea Young Volunteer Group in my hometown. Currently, I work as a Business Development Officer for an insurance company.  I am a volunteer with AYAN Laos on the implementation of Seat For The Future, which aims to raise awareness of the rights and obligations under the Lao constitution to high school students in Vientiane and is funded under the YSEALI Seeds for the Future 2024, and the Legal Eagles project, which is funded by the INL Department of the US Embassy in Vientiane, to raise awareness of the rule of law to youth in Laos.